Deborah Annette Helms Kelley was born on October 20, 1973, in Pageland, South Carolina, to Donald Helms and Janice Watson Helms.  She passed away on February 10, 2026.

Deborah graduated from Central High School and later earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Francis Marion University, where she was a proud sister of Zeta Sorority. Deborah went on to work as an Aflac Insurance sales agent, where she was known for her kindness and dedication to helping others.

On October 2, 1999, she married the love of her life, Brian F. Kelley, in Florence, South Carolina.

Deborah was forced into early retirement due to multiple medical diagnoses, including Hereditary Sensory and Autonomic Neuropathy (HSAN1e), dementia, hearing loss, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease affecting her feet, and diabetes. Despite these challenges, Deborah’s spirit, grace, and quiet strength never wavered.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Brian F. Kelley, on April 3, 2017; and her father-in-law, Gene Kelley.

She is survived by her half-brothers, Donald Helms (Jessica) and their children, Deaven and Heartlee; and Daniel Helms (Jennifer) and their daughters, Stella and Ada; her stepmother, Debbie Helms; aunts, Brenda Vermillion and Jean Leatherman; a number of cousins and extended family; her mother-in-law, Regina Kelley; and her brother-in-law, Thomas Kelley (Crystal) and their children Kyla and Griffin, of Wilmington, Massachusetts.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to Deborah’s devoted CNA care team: Daisy Allen, Delores Rush, Eunice Mwanza, Faye Singleton, Korelle Hill, Cynthia Starr, Brenda Pendergast, and Dana Cole. An extra-special thank you to her faithful visitors and supporters: Melissa King, Kelly Weiss, Lora Smith, Kenny Eisiminger, and Amy Jackson.

Deep gratitude is also given to her healthcare team, especially Leslie Smith, NPA, Your Health, and the compassionate staff of Agape Hospice—doctors, nurses especially Melissa, social workers, and Pastor Daniel—whose continuous care and support brought comfort to Deborah and those caring for her.

Arrangements are entrusted to Calcutt-Dowling Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am – 11:30 am Friday, February 20, 2026 at the funeral home with a memorial service to be held at 11:30 am in the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brian and Deborah Kelley Scholarship Fund c/o Francis Marion University, 4822 E. Palmetto Street, Florence, South Carolina, 29506.